Leila Arboretum Society

Imagine 34 hectares of pure natural inspiration spread across the hills of Battle Creek. The Leila Arboretum is not just a park, but a true living museum of trees and shrubs in the USA, featuring over 2,000 plant species. Designed in the style of majestic European gardens, it offers guests walks along picturesque paved paths and an introduction to unique themed zones.

One of the arboretum's most striking features is the Fantasy Forest. Here, dead trees affected by pests have found a second life as 26 whimsical sculptures. Artisans transformed old trunks into majestic dragons, wise wizards, and fairytale castles, creating an atmosphere of magic right under the open sky. Also on the grounds is the Kaleidoscope Garden—an amazing garden where they teach edible plant cultivation and showcase rare flora varieties.

The arboretum leads an active life: it hosts masterclasses at the horticultural learning center, music festivals, and even cardboard sled races. It is a place where 1920s history meets contemporary art and environmental education, making it a must-visit in the state of Michigan.

To contact the arboretum administration or for more information about events, you can use the following official channels.

First and foremost, it's worth taking a walk along the main trail, which is about a mile and a half long. The path winds through the hills, offering views of rare tree collections, many of which were planted a century ago. Be sure to stop by the Fragrant Hill Pavilion—an Eastern-style pavilion where you can rest and enjoy a peaceful atmosphere reminiscent of parks in China.

For those seeking unusual experiences, the main point of interest will be the Fantasy Forest. Viewing the carved sculptures of mythical creatures is a favorite activity for families with children and photographers alike. If you prefer active recreation, the arboretum offers one of the most interesting disc golf courses in the region. The 18-basket course was designed so that players can enjoy the landscape without harming the valuable plants.

Gardening enthusiasts will enjoy the Kaleidoscope Garden, where you can see edible crops growing and pick up ideas for your own garden. Throughout the year, the arboretum hosts vibrant events such as the Leilapalooza music festival or the Festivus winter races, which transform the quiet park into a hub of community life.

The arboretum is conveniently located at 928 W Michigan Ave, near the western entrance to the Urbandale neighborhood. If you are traveling by car from downtown Battle Creek, the trip will take only 5–10 minutes via West Michigan Avenue. The site is close to I-94 (Michigan Ave exit), and free parking is provided for visitors on-site.

For those preferring public transportation, Battle Creek Transit buses stop nearby. The arboretum is also easily accessible by bicycle thanks to the city's extensive trail network. If you are arriving from another region, the nearest major hub is Kalamazoo/Battle Creek International Airport (AZO), located approximately 40 kilometers (about a 30-minute drive) away.

Residents of neighboring areas often arrive on foot, enjoying a stroll along the Kalamazoo River. Taxi services and Uber are also active in the city, making a visit to the park accessible even without a personal vehicle.

The history of this green oasis began in 1922. It was then that Leila Post Montgomery, daughter of the famous industrial tycoon C.W. Post, donated 72 acres of land to the city. Her dream was to create more than just a park—a complete educational campus and a living open-air museum for children and adults alike.

Landscape architect T. Clifton Shepard designed the grounds between 1924 and 1930. The work was massive: dynamite was used to prepare the soil, and thousands of saplings were brought in from the best nurseries. Interestingly, before becoming an arboretum, this land served as both a golf club and the Post family's farm, known as Calamari Farm.

Unfortunately, the Great Depression forced changes, and ambitious plans to build lecture halls and music venues were put on hold. For decades, the park remained in relative neglect until the early 1980s, when a group of volunteers formed the Leila Arboretum Society. Thanks to their efforts and a major fundraising campaign in the 90s, the arboretum was fully restored and expanded, becoming a modern cultural center.

In 2022, the arboretum solemnly celebrated its centenary. Today, it continues to thrive solely through community support, grants, and the work of over a hundred volunteers, remaining a symbol of philanthropy and love for nature in Michigan.

To enjoy the park's atmosphere at a leisurely pace, a typical visitor will need about 2–3 hours. This is plenty of time to walk the main 1.5-mile loop, view the major plant collections, and linger by the most impressive sculptures in the Fantasy Forest.

If you plan to have a picnic, play a round on the professional disc golf course, or explore the educational programs in the Kaleidoscope Garden in detail, you should set aside half a day for your visit. The arboretum is an ideal place for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city, so you definitely won't want to rush.

Leila Arboretum is hospitably open to visitors daily. The standard schedule allows you to enjoy the morning cool or the soft late-afternoon light:

• Monday – Sunday: 06:00 AM – 05:00 PM

Please note that during special festivals or educational programs, hours may be extended. It is recommended to check the event calendar on the official website before your visit.

A visit to the arboretum can be perfectly combined with exploring other interesting places in the area. Battle Creek offers a variety of cultural and entertainment sites that will complement your itinerary and make your walk through the city even more rewarding.